Challenges to applying geomorphic and stream reclamation methodologies to mountaintop mining and excess spoil fill construction in steep-slope topography (e.g. Central appalachia)

Abstract

Proponents of geomorphic mine land reclamation have criticized current reclamation practices in the coal fields of steep-sloped Central Appalachia as too narrowly focused on civil engineering principles and neglectful of the functional and aesthetic benefits of reclaiming mine sites in ways that mimic natural landforms and drainage patterns. They observe that current mining and reclamation practices are radically transforming the mountain-and-valley terrain into gigantic flat plateaus and, in doing so, disrupting the beauty and ecology of the natural landscape. Instead of designing and constructing linear or planar surfaces and unvarying slope gradients during the reclamation process, they recommend "landforming," i.e. the adoption of curvilinear, compound slope forms that blend well with the surrounding physiography and represent the result of naturally stabilizing geomomorphic processes. The authors feel that the concept of geomorphic mine land reclamation is sound, however, its application to the Central Appalachian coal fields faces significant-albeit not insurmountable-challenges. They include: (1) existing reclamation-enforcement regulations that are focused on civil engineering principles and not explicitly supportive of geomorphic methodologies; (2) regulatory agencies' current intent to limit the down-gradient reach of excess spoil fills in order to allay disruption or burial of natural streams; (3) actual or perceived increases in reclamation costs; and (4) the challenge of designing and constructing "natural" landforms that are mature and stable in an otherwise youthful, erosional landscape. Copyright © (2010) by the American Society of Mining and Reclamation.